Malignant rectal GIST managed with chemotherapy (Imatinib Mesylate): A case report and a comprehensive review

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors involving the gastrointestinal tract, arising from the interstitial cells of Cajal. GIST comprises about 1% of all GI tumors. Rectal GISTs are rare and comprise of approximately 5% of all GISTs and only 0.1% of rectal tumors are found to be GISTs. Rectal GISTs may be diagnosed incidentally or present with symptoms, including defecation problems, bleeding, and/or pain. We report a case of a 46-year-old male with rectal GIST metastasized to the liver and bilateral lung parenchyma managed by Imatinib Mesylate (IM) regimen. Rectal GIST although being rare, must be considered as a differential diagnosis in a patient presenting with defecatory problems with bleeding.

Continuous versus interrupted anastomotic technique for the hepaticojejunostomy: a prospective cohort study

Background

Interrupted sutures is the gold standard technique of hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) for bilioenteric anastomosis. This study compares the safety and early complications of continuous and interrupted suture HJ.

Methods

A prospective study involving all elective HJ between September 2019 and June 2021 was conducted. Patients with type IV or V biliary strictures, duct diameter less than 8 mm and/or associated vascular injury, and bilateral HJ were excluded. The study patients were divided into two random groups; interrupted and continuous anastomotic technique. Patient demographics, preoperative parameters including pathology (benign vs. malignant), HJ leak, suture time, and postoperative morbidity were recorded.

Results

Total 34 patients were enroled. Eighteen (52.9%) were into interrupted and 16 (47.1%) patients into the continuous group. Both the groups were comparable with regards to demographics, haemoglobin, serum albumin, preoperative cholangitis and biliary stenting. Total three (8.8%) patients in the entire study developed bile leak; interrupted-2 and continuous-1, which was not significant statistically (P=1.0). Similarly, total number of sutures used and the mean operating time to complete anastomosis in the continuous group was significantly lesser than the interrupted group (2.3±0.5 versus 9.6±1.6, P<0.001) and (16.2±3.1 versus 38.6±9.2 min, P<0.001), respectively. There were three (18.8%) re-exploration in the continuous anastomotic technique. Among them, only one re-operation was due to HJ anastomosis failure without mortality, remaining had re-exploration for bleeding (non-HJ).

Conclusions

Both the techniques is safe with comparable morbidity. Further, continuous has an added advantage of decreased anastomotic time and cost.

Subclavian steal syndrome

Early recognition and diagnosis of subclavian steal syndrome are vital to avoid unnecessary investigations and ensure appropriate management. This case highlights the significance of comprehensive evaluation, including bilateral blood pressure measurement, in patients with unilateral symptoms.

Antibiotics use among residents in Eastern Nepal: a community-based mixed method study

Introduction

According to the WHO, more than two-thirds of all antibiotics are used in the community, of which about 30% are used inappropriately. The antimicrobial resistance (AMR) problem is a growing threat to Nepal because of indiscriminate and inappropriate use. However, exact data on the extent of inappropriate use of antibiotics in the community is scarce in Nepal.

Objectives

To know the extent of inappropriate use of antibiotics among the community and their knowledge and practice towards the usage of antibiotics.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 20 December 2017 to 20 March 2018 using a purposive sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used while conducting face-to-face interviews with 336 respondents to find out the knowledge and practice regarding antibiotic use. Investigators took different antibiotics (in all dosage forms) with them to show participants whether they knew and/or used the antibiotics in the last year.

Results

The mean age of respondents with standard deviation was 39.87±13.67 years ranging from 18 to 84 years. Around 35.42% of respondents were farmers and 34.52% were homemakers. 28.87% of respondents were illiterate, 32.44% had primary education and 33.33% had secondary education. Almost half of them (48.51%) think that antibiotics are safe and can be commonly used. So, 43.15% of them preferred taking antibiotics when they had a common cold. The majority of the participants (81.84%) did not have any idea about antibiotic resistance. 94.6% of the respondents used antibiotics inappropriately.

Conclusion

The results of the present study revealed that inappropriate use of antibiotics is high and associated with low earning wages in both males and females in the age group 18-39 years.

Critical View of Safety Dissection and Rouviere's Sulcus for Safe Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Descriptive Study

Objective: To determine the importance of a critical view of safety (CVS) techniques and Rouviere's sulcus (RS) in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and its relation to biliary duct injuries (BDIs) and to determine the frequency and the type of RS. Design, Setting, and Participants: A descriptive study was carried out among 76 patients presenting to the surgery department of a tertiary care center in Nepal. The study population included all patients in the age group 16-80 years undergoing LC. Outcome Measures: The main outcome of interest was to calculate the percentage of BDIs along with the frequency and the type of RS. Results: A total of 76 patients were enrolled in the study, out of which 57(75%) were female patients with a male-to-female ratio of 1:3 and a mean age of 45.87 ± 15.33 years. Seventy-one (93.4%) patients were diagnosed with symptomatic gallstone disease. The CVS was achieved in 75 (98.7%) of the cases, whereas in 1 case, the CVS could not be achieved, and in the same patient routine LC was converted into open cholecystectomy owing to the difficult laparoscopic procedure. In 56 (73.7%) cases, RS was first visible to the operating surgeons after port installation, alignment, and adequate traction of the gallbladder; in 20 (26.3%) cases, RS was not originally apparent. Conclusion: According to the findings of this study and the literature's critical assessment of safety, this method will soon become a gold standard for dissecting gall bladder components. The technique needs to be extended further, especially for training purposes. Major difficulties can be avoided by identifying RS before cutting the cystic artery or duct during LC.

Role of radiological corroboration in a locally aggressive inverted papilloma: a case report

Introduction and importance

Sinonasal inverted papilloma is a rare benign tumor of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (PNS). Radiological evaluation is the key to management.

Case presentation

A 46-year-old male presented with complaints of right nasal congestion and occasional bleeding for 4 months. During anterior rhinoscopy, a pinkish fleshy mass occupying the right nasal cavity was seen. X-ray and computed tomography (CT) PNS view showed opacification in the right nasal cavity and maxillary sinus. An MRI of the nose and PNS revealed a peculiar convoluted striated/cerebriform pattern. Histopathology report described the features of an inverted papilloma. The patient underwent endoscopic removal of the mass under general anesthesia. Surgical resection of the tumor was performed along with adjacent normal mucosal tissues. The patient recovered well and was followed-up for recurrence.

Clinical discussion

Sinonasal inverted papilloma is commonly found in males in their fifth to sixth decade of life. A CT scan is the initial modality of choice to evaluate the extent of the disease. MRI is superior to CT in distinguishing tumors from other conditions as well as to evaluate soft tissue extensions. Involvement of the frontal sinus is a risk factor for recurrence. The first option for treating an inverted papilloma is complete surgical removal with the adjacent uninvolved mucosa.

Conclusion

In a biopsy-proven case, radiological assessments like CT and MRI play a pivotal role in studying the typical morphology, delineating the extension, and detecting recurrence.

Median nerve schwannoma with a diagnostic delay of 8 years: a case report

Introduction

Schwannomas are benign tumors of the peripheral nerve sheath, and the median nerve is the most commonly involved nerve. These benign tumors of the peripheral nerve sheath are very rare; they are clinically and radiologically similar to most other benign swellings of the hand; thus, they are often misdiagnosed.

Case Presentation

A 41-year-old lady presented with an 8-year-long history of swelling over the distal forearm. The tumor measured 3.5×3.5×3.5 mm and was located over the flexor aspect of the distal part of her right forearm. Schwannoma was suspected from the clinical presentation and imaging, but the final diagnosis was established only after the surgery and histopathological analysis. At the follow-up after 1 year, the patient is doing well and her symptoms have not recurred.

Conclusion

Imaging characteristics of schwannoma can be misinterpreted as some other condition, making the preoperative diagnosis very difficult and important. Thus, clinicians should be aware of such swellings, especially those that have been unnoticed or misdiagnosed, and provide optimal diagnoses to confer good outcomes.

Left segmental hypoplasia of liver with concomitant gallbladder agenesis

Key Clinical Message Congenital liver anomalies are rarely reported. To the best of our knowledge and literature review, associated gallbladder agenesis with left hepatic lobe agenesis is extremely rare. The rarity of this condition and its uncertain radiological features often leads to misdiagnosis and unwarranted surgical treatments.

Recurrent pyogenic cholangitis

The incidence of hepatolithiasis is variable. Globalization has additionally altered disease dynamics globally. A multi-disciplinary team approach is deemed necessary for the timely diagnosis, safe, affordable treatment, and good prognosis.

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy in remission: a case report

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy is the most prevalent form of primary glomerulonephritis.

Case presentation

A 33-year-old military male presented with complaints of fever, headache, myalgia, chills, and haematuria for 10 years. His lab results showed elevated serum creatinine levels and proteinuria. A renal biopsy was done which was consistent with a diagnosis of immunoglobulin A nephropathy. He was managed with antihypertensive, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, steroids and immunosuppressants, and Omega-3 fatty acids. There was remission of the symptoms and the patient's serum creatinine and sonogram findings returned to baseline.

Conclusion

Routine follow-up along with the appropriate use of medications can limit disease complications and progression.

Spontaneous idiopathic omental bleeding: a case report of rare cause of acute abdomen

Idiopathic omental hemorrhage is a rare cause of an acute abdomen, which is potentially life threatening. Here, we report a case of a 34-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with sudden, severe pain abdomen and abdominal distension for 1 day. There was no history of trauma, abdominal surgeries or any significant past medical history. The diagnosis was suspected on contrast computed tomography, which revealed hyperdense areas of blood in the peritoneal cavity with contrast extravasation from the omentum. The patient underwent successful emergency laparotomy, peritoneal lavage and greater omentectomy to achieve hemostasis.

Resectability and prognosis of gallbladder cancer: a cross-sectional study of 100 cases from a tertiary care centre of Eastern Nepal

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the fifth most common neoplasm of the digestive tract and has an overall incidence of 3 per 100 000 people. Only 15-47% of the preoperatively known GBC are suitable for resection. The objective of the study was to investigate the resectability and prognosis of GBC patients.

Materials and methods

It is a prospective observational study including all cases of primary cancers of the gallbladder in the Department of Surgical Gastroenterology at a tertiary care center over the period from January 2014 to December 2019. The primary endpoint was resectability and overall survival.

Results

During the study period, 100 patients with GBC were reported. The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 52.5 years, with a female predominance (67%). The curative intent resection (radical cholecystectomy) was possible in 30 (30%) patients; while 18 (18%) required palliative surgical treatment. The overall survival of the entire group was 9 months; while those patients who underwent surgery with curative intent had a median overall survival of 28 months after a median follow-up of 42 months.

Conclusion

This study found that only one-third of patients achieve radical surgery with curative intent. Overall, the prognosis of patients is poor with a median survival of less than a year due to the advanced stage disease. Multimodality treatment, screening ultrasound, and neo-/adjuvant therapy may improve survival.

Advancing Analytics of EEG Signals

Electro Encephalo Graphy (EEG) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that is widely used in the field of neurosurgery. The EEG measures the electrical activity of the brain, which provides essential information about brain function and can help diagnose various neurological conditions. In neurosurgery, EEG monitors the brain during surgery to ensure that the patient's brain function remains stable and minimize the risk of neurological complications. EEG is also used in the preoperative evaluation of patients who are being considered for brain surgery. This information is critical in helping the neurosurgeon determine the best surgical approach and to minimize the risk of damaging critical brain structures. Additionally, EEG can be used to monitor the brain's recovery after surgery, which can help predict the patient's prognosis and inform the treatment plan.In recent years, the use of EEG has become increasingly sophisticated and has allowed for more precise and detailed monitoring of brain function during surgery. For example, high-resolution EEG techniques can be used to provide real-time information about the activity of specific brain regions. Additionally, developing wearable and portable devices in the future will allow continuous monitoring of brain function, providing real-time data on a patient's condition. In conclusion, EEG is a critical tool in the field of neurosurgery and has dramatically improved the ability of neurosurgeons to diagnose, treat, and monitor patients with neurological conditions. With continued advances in EEG technology, its use in neurosurgery will likely continue to grow and play an increasingly important role in improving patient outcomes.

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome mimicking gastric outlet obstruction: a case report and a literature review

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome, an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction, may present with clinical features mimicking gastric outlet obstruction.

Case presentation

The authors present a case of a 65-year-old gentleman who presented to our institute with complaints of sudden onset abdominal distension and multiple episodes of bilious vomiting for 4 days. On examination, he was cachexic and dehydrated and was diagnosed later with SMA syndrome based on contrast-enhanced computed tomography abdomen findings.

Discussion

After the diagnosis of SMA syndrome was made, the patient was planned for the operation. On exploration, a hugely distended stomach dilated first and the second part of the duodenum with SMA compressing the third part of the duodenum was found for which duodenojejunostomy was done.

Conclusion

The high degree of suspicion is necessary for cachectic patients presenting with features of gastric outlet obstruction to diagnose SMA syndrome. Physical examination supported by radiological investigations can diagnose SMA syndrome to some extent. Treatment should be focused on relieving obstruction along with fluid and electrolyte resuscitation and nutritional supplementation. Some cases may require surgical correction.

Large posterior mediastinal ganglioneuroma with intradural cervical spine extension: A rare case report and review of literature

Introduction

Ganglioneuroma (GN) is a rare benign tumor of ganglion cell origin and can occur anywhere along the sympathetic chain. These tumors can grow to a significant size without any symptoms unless they exert a mass effect on the region they grow and start showing symptoms. Spinal extensions are rare and they may produce neurological symptoms warranting further investigation.

Case presentation

We described a case of posterior mediastinal ganglioneuroma in a 4-year-old boy with cervical extension who presented with quadriparesis. The radiological scan revealed large ganglioneuroma having an intradural extramedullary extension with a large posterior mediastinal component compressing and displacing the surrounding structures. He underwent consecutive surgeries for complete excision of the tumor following which he regained his power in his upper and lower limbs over the period of 2 months.

Conclusion

Para spinal mass with consistent radiological features suggests ganglioneuroma but confirmation should be done with biopsy. Complete excision of the tumor is the treatment of choice with close follow-up for clinical improvement and recurrence.

Association of geographic distribution and birth weight with sociodemographic factors of the maternal and newborn child of hilly and mountain regions of eastern Nepal: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To determine the association of geographic distribution, and birth weight with sociodemographic factors of the maternal and newborn child of hilly region (lower altitude) and mountain region (high altitude) of eastern Nepal as well as the prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) and large for gestational age (LGA) among term singleton deliveries in eastern Nepal.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study was conducted in the district-level hospitals of Dhankuta, Tehrathum, Solukhumbu and Taplejung districts of eastern Nepal of Province 1. Mothers with preterm or post-term delivery, multiple pregnancies, stillbirth/intrauterine fetal death and incomplete records were excluded from the study with only 1386 term pregnancies (37-42 weeks) delivered at the respective facilities between 17 July 2019 and 16 July 2020 were included. The appropriate data were entered in Microsoft Excel 2019 V.16.0 and statistical analysis was performed by using the statistical package for social sciences, IBM SPSS V.29.

RESULTS

The low maternal age, Dalit ethnic group, low gravidity, low parity, higher antenatal care (ANC) visits (≥4), incomplete deworming and dT vaccination status, breech deliveries and LBW newborns were significantly attributed to hilly region (lower altitude) (p value <0.05). Similarly, the hilly region, lower and/or no ANC visits and early term gestation had significant negative association with birth weight at the lower quantiles only. Meanwhile, the female newborn had significant and negative association with birth weight distribution at all seven quantiles. The prevalence of the LBW, average for gestational age and LGA newborn child among term singleton deliveries in Eastern Nepal is 6.6%, 85.8% and 7.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The local organisations should focus on adequate antenatal care visits in mountain region and coverage of dT vaccine and deworming medications in hilly region. Appropriate measures and programmes should be initiated to bring down LBW in hilly region.

Acceptance and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccine among Nepalese population: A cross-sectional study

Introduction

COVID-19 is an emerging infectious disease with a high transmission rate and substantial deaths. Various vaccines have been developed to combat it. This study is aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among the Nepalese population through a web-based survey.

Materials and methods

This is a web-based cross-sectional descriptive study of Nepalese people 18 years and above from different regions of Nepal who use social media (Facebook, Twitter, Reddit) as well as instant messaging applications (Messenger, Viber, WhatsApp). The duration of the study was 3 months from 1st June 2021 to 31st August 2021. The sampling technique used was self-selected non-probability sampling. A validated questionnaire had been taken to record the data.

Results

A total of 307 participants were included in the study. About three-fourths of participants 231 (75.2%) had not been vaccinated while 76 (24.8%) had been vaccinated with COVID -19 vaccine. Out of 231 non-vaccinated participants, most of participants 213 (92.2%) had shown acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. More than two-thirds of participants believed that the vaccine would protect them, their family members, and the community from having COVID-19 in the future. Very few participants 18 (7.2%) were hesitant to receive the vaccine against COVID-19. About two-thirds of participants were being afraid of adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccine while more than half of participants hesitated due to lack of enough information regarding COVID-19 vaccine.

Conclusion

This study can aid in the planning of vaccination campaigns and the direction of future public health efforts aimed at increasing COVID-19 vaccine uptake.

Intermediate syndrome following organophosphate poisoning: A case report in a low resource and poor socio-economic setting

Intermediate syndrome with respiratory failure is a serious complication that can be fatal as in our case of a 24‐year‐old‐man who developed intermediate syndrome requiring intubation and respiratory support. Furthermore, the patient's socio‐economic situation significantly impacts the illness's progress and prognosis.

With this case report, we want to stress how a patient's socio‐economic background affects the course and outcome of a particular disease condition.

Gastric antral vascular ectasia (Watermelon stomach); an unusual cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in elderly: A case report

Introduction

Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is an unusual cause of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in an elderly patient.

Case presentation

A 73-year-old female with erosive gastritis, hypertension, and unstable angina arrived at the emergency department with shortness of breath, easy fatigability, and melaena. Physical examination indicated pallor but no signs of distress, with an unremarkable systemic examination. Routine blood testing indicated anemia. The patient underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which revealed linear red ectatic vessels radiating from the antrum towards the body. A diagnosis of GAVE was made. Blood transfusions and argon plasma coagulation were undertaken.

Clinical discussion

This condition is an uncommon cause of upper GI bleeding with the antrum being the most prevalent site. The pathophysiology of GAVE is yet unknown, however, many hypotheses have been postulated. GAVE is frequently misdiagnosed as gastritis. GAVE treatment comprises initial resuscitation and symptomatic treatment with intravenous fluids and blood products. Endoscopy has increasingly been the first-line therapeutic option for GAVE in recent years, including argon plasma coagulation.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of gastric antral vascular ectasia is frequently overlooked during upper GI endoscopy, despite the fact that it should always be explored, especially in cases of unexplained GI bleeding in the elderly.

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An unusual cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in an elderly patient.

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Frequently misdiagnosed as gastritis.

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Linear red ectatic vessels radiating from gastric antrum towards the body.

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Argon plasma coagulation is a good treatment modality.

Atrial Fibrillation among Patients Admitted to the Department of Internal Medicine in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

Atrial fibrillation is one of the commonest arrhythmias with an overall prevalence estimated to be 0.4-1% in the general population. The objective of this study was to find out the prevalence of atrial fibrillation among patients admitted to the Department of Internal Medicine in a tertiary care centre.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among patients admitted to the Department of Internal Medicine of a tertiary care centre from 01 March 2021 to 01 March 2022. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: IRC-478/2021). Convenience sampling method was used. Data were collected from the hospital records using a semi-structured study proforma including demography, clinical presentation, laboratory investigations, electrocardiogram, 2-dimension echocardiography, and CHA2DS2VASc score. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated.

RESULTS

Among 27,980 patients, atrial fibrillation was found in 185 (0.66%) (0.58-0.77, 95% Confidence Interval). Among them 66 (35.67%) were in the age group of 61-70 years and 97 (52.43%) were females. Dyspnea was present in 149 (80.54%), palpitation in 137 (74.05%) and pedal edema in 117 (63.27%). Valvular atrial fibrillation was seen in 101 (54.59%) and non-valvular atrial fibrillation was seen in 84 (45.41%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of atrial fibrillation was found to be similar when compared to other studies conducted in similar settings.

A rare case of Erdheim-chester disease reported from Nepal

Introduction

Erdheim-Chester Disease (ECD) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis with a propensity to involve multiple organs.

Case presentation

We report a case of a patient in mid-60s with occipital headache and ataxia. Following the radiological and immunohistochemical investigations and genomic studies, a diagnosis of ECD was made with two intracerebral lesions. Brain lesions were resected and the patient was discharged with the medication Vemurafenib. After 3 years of diagnosis and 13 years of initial presentation, patient passed away.

Discussion

ECD frequently presents with Diabetes Insipidus as initial presentation, long bone osteosclerosis as the most common presentation, and has multi-system predisposition. ECD can be differentiated from Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) with immunohistochemistry images of the biopsy specimens. Further, with genomic analysis of ECD, the neoplastic nature has been highlighted and targeted therapies like Vemurafenib and Cobimetinib are shown to be effective.

Conclusion

Good clinical judgement and supporting investigations can aid in diagnosing rare entities like ECD even in resource-limited settings.

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Rare case of Erdheim-Chester disease with multi-system involvement presenting with initial features 10 years prior to diagnosis.

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Initially Diabetes Insipidus, followed by long bone and other multi-system involvement important cues for the diagnosis.

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Biopsy of the lesion and immunohistochemical analysis can help confirm the diagnosis.

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Genomic studies with mutational analysis further highlights the neoplastic nature of the disease.

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Advancement of genomic studies with targeted therapies like Vemurafenib and Cobimetinib key in of management of ECD.

Giant occipital encephalocele complicated with obstructive hydrocephalus: A case report

Introduction

and importance: An encephalocele is a type of congenital neural tube defect defined by herniation of intracranial contents via a cranial defect. When an encephalocele is greater than the size of the head, it is referred to as a "giant encephalocele." The occurrence of encephalocele has been documented to be 1–4 instances per 10,000 live births. Surgery is challenging.

Case presentation

A 1-month-old baby boy sustained a huge swelling on the back of his head since birth, and it increased gradually over time. On examination, he had a huge occipital swelling measuring about 20 × 15 × 17 cm in size. A diagnosis of giant occipital encephalocele was established. Surgical excision and repair was done. After 1 month, he developed obstructive hydrocephalus and a ventriculo-periotoneal shunting was performed. On regular follow-up, he is in a good state of health.

Discussion

Surgery imposes challenges for the anaesthesiologists and neurosurgeons due to its complex site, enormous size, intraoperative blood loss, and prolonged anaesthesia. A team approach is necessary for its successful treatment.

Conclusions

Based on our experience, we would like to deliver following recommendations in the surgical management of giant encephalocele. Surgery should be done quickly to ensure good prognosis. Proper positioning, efficient intubation, infections and sepsis control should be emphasized. Also, fortification of food with folic acid, as well as increased education and awareness of women on the need for antenatal care may also decrease the risk of this disease.

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An encephalocele is a type of congenital neural tube defect.

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Surgery imposes challenges for the anaesthesiologists and neurosurgeons.

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A team approach is necessary for its successful treatment.

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Proper positioning, efficient intubation, infections and sepsis control should be emphasized.

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Fortification of food with folic acid may also decrease the risk of this disease.

Cervical cancer screening utilization, and associated factors, in Nepal: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To systematically appraise the existing published literature on cervical cancer screening utilization, and associated barriers and facilitators, in Nepal.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, and, Google Scholar were systematically searched using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guideline. All quantitative and qualitative studies reporting cervical cancer screening (using the Pap smear test or visual inspection with acetic acid or human papillomavirus test) utilization, barriers, and facilitators for screening were identified. A meta-analysis was performed to estimate Nepal's pooled cervical cancer screening utilization proportion.

RESULTS

The search yielded 97 records, of which 17 studies were included. Fifteen studies were quantitative and two were qualitative. Of the 17 studies, six were hospital-based and six were community-based. The pooled cervical cancer screening utilization proportion (using Pap smear test) among Nepalese women was 17% from the studies in the hospital settings, and 16% in the community. Six studies reported barriers to cervical cancer screening, of which four reported embarrassments related to the gynecological examination and a low level of knowledge on cervical cancer. Three (of four) studies reported health personnel, and two studies reported screening services-related facilitators for cervical cancer screening.

CONCLUSION

Our review reported that cervical cancer screening utilization (16%) is more than four times lower than the national target (70%) in Nepal. Multiple barriers such as low levels of knowledge and embarrassment are associated with cervical cancer screening utilization. Health personnel's gender, counseling, and privacy of screening services were commonly reported facilitators. These findings could help to inform future research, and policy efforts to increase cervical cancer screening utilization in Nepal.

Von Hippel-Lindau disease: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is a rare autosomal dominantly inherited genetic condition. Von Hippel characterized the illness independently in 1911, and Lindau in 1926. Its prevalence is estimated to be about 1 in every 36,000 live births. VHL is characterized by the production of several benign and malignant tumors, as well as cysts in other organs. For proper prognosis, good clinical judgement and timely diagnosis is warranted.

CASE PRESENTATION

Herein, we report a case of a 50-year-old man with several central nervous system (CNS) lesions, retinal lesions, and renal cortical cysts with a diagnosis of VHL disease who was surgically treated. At a 3-month follow-up, he improved drastically with a marked alleviation of his signs and symptoms.

DISCUSSION

VHL is characterized by the creation of various benign and malignant tumors, as well as cysts in multiple organs, and is passed down through generations in an autosomal dominant pattern with near-complete penetrance. CNS lesions are surgically treated. Regular follow-up should be ensured.

CONCLUSIONS

VHL disease is an extremely complicated disease with the need for diagnosis and genetic tests in the patient and family members, as well as intensive supervision of carriers of the mutated gene, thereby improving early diagnosis and successful treatment of the malignancies. The high cost of diagnostics and surgical therapies is a severe issue. Government care and financial assistance are critical considerations.

Sebaceous carcinoma of trunk with bilateral axillary lymph node metastasis: a rare presentation of malignant adnexal tumor in young adult

Malignant adnexal tumors of skin are rare. Sebaceous carcinoma—a rare and aggressive cutaneous tumor—is frequently located in the periorbital region. Malignant adnexal tumors of sebaceous carcinoma type on trunk with axillary lymph node and distant metastasis in young adult is rare. The incidence of extraocular sebaceous carcinoma has been expected to be 0.06 per 100 000 person-years with an increased incidence in elderly patients and men. With a note of mimicking benign dermatologic conditions, definitive diagnosis of sebaceous carcinomas is often hindered, increasing morbidity and mortality for patients. Herein, we present a case of a 35-year-old man with a large ulcero-proliferating lesion of trunk region previously resected for a small swelling and eventually presented with the recurrent lesion and diagnosed as sebaceous carcinoma of trunk with bilateral axillary lymphnode and distant bone metastasis demonstrating several diagnostic and management challenges.

Pin-tract myiasis after external bone fixation: A case report and review of literature

Introduction and importance

Myiasis has been reported as a complication of fracture treatment with external fixation. Therefore, physicians should be aware of the possible re-emergence of myiasis as a complication of surgery and the use of metal fixators.

Clinical presentation

A 45-year-old male, non-diabetic, chronic alcoholic treated with external bone fixation and flap coverage for Gustilo-Anderson type IIIB comminuted fracture of shaft of left tibia and fibula with intact distal neuro-vascular system presented with multiple maggots with foul-smelling discharge from the pin tract. A diagnosis of abscess with pin-tract myiasis was made and managed with wound debridement and complete removal of maggots.

Conclusion

We report this rare pin-tract complication to acknowledge how simple precautions, wound care, and avoidance of risk factors play a vital role in preventing such infestations. Therefore, physicians should be aware of the possible re-emergence of myiasis as a complication of surgery and the use of metal fixators.

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Pin-tract myiasis is a rare presentation of a neglected wound after external bone fixation.

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Myiasis is associated with poor hygiene which is still a public health problem in developing countries.

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Simple precautions, wound care, and avoidance of risk factors play a vital role in preventing this infestation.

Giant sacrococcygeal teratoma in a neonate: illustrative case

BACKGROUND

Sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCTs) are tumors that emerge in the sacrococcygeal area and contain tissue from all three germ layers. SCT affects about 1 in every 35,000–40,000 live births, with malignant transformation becoming more common as the patient gets older. Ultrasound helps in prenatal diagnosis. Surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment.

OBSERVATIONS

A couple gave birth to a neonate with a small mass over his sacral region that progressively increased in size. Diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging was performed, and a diagnosis of giant SCT was established. Complete resection with flap reconstruction was performed. In regular follow-up, he is in a good state of health.

LESSONS

One of the most common tumors in infancy, SCT should be carefully diagnosed. SCT is often confused with neural tube defects such as myelocystocele or myelomeningocele. Complete resection with appropriate reconstruction can ensure better treatment, and close follow-up until adulthood is recommended to keep a close view on its possible recurrence and to improve prognosis. Postoperative complications such as infection, bleeding, and urethral complications should be carefully watched.

Hyoscine butylbromide induced psychosis: A case report

Hyoscine butylbromide-induced pyschosis, though rare, should be considered in a child presenting with deteriorating cognitive functions and psychotic features acutely as evident in our case of a 9-year-old child taking hyoscine for her non-specific abdominal pain.

Ileosigmoid knotting: A case report of unique cause of acute abdomen in a Nepalese patient

Introduction and importance

Ileosigmoid knotting is a surgical emergency. Common in Asian males, it is presented with signs and symptoms of diffuse peritonitis. Aggressive resuscitation with intravenous fluids and antibiotics followed by workup enable the patient hemodynamically stable. Explorative laparotomy followed by colo-colic anastomosis and double barrel ileostomy is curative.

Case presentation

A 32-year-old-male from Nepal with a chief complain of diffuse abdominal pain for a day and signs of peritonitis presented to Emergency room. After assessing and stabilizing the patient, explorative laparotomy was performed. Ileal and sigmoid resection followed by colo-colic anastomosis and double barrel ileostomy was done. On regular follow-up, he is in his usual state of health.

Discussion

The incidence of ileosigmoid knotting is reported to be about 1.6 cases per year. It is often misdiagnosed as non-specific intestinal obstruction which confers poor prognostic value to the patient. It should be identified promptly and intervened timely.

Conclusion

Ileosigmoid knotting is a rare but dangerous differential of acute abdomen not to be missed. Early assessment and quick decision making is the key to provide excellent prognosis to the patient in need, provided adequate surgical skills are demonstrated.

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Ileosigmoid knotting is a surgical emergency.

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It is common in Asian males.

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Patient presents with signs and symptoms of diffuse peritonitis.

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Explorative laparotomy should be done.

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Ileal and sigmoid resection followed by colo-colic anastomosis with double barrel ileostomy was performed.

OUP accepted manuscript

Intestinal tuberculosis (TB) is a rare condition comprising a majority of the extra-pulmonary TB cases. Owing to a similar clinical presentation, ultrasonographic and biopsy findings of intestinal TB with that of other abdominal pathologies such as carcinoma colon, their clinical delineation is very difficult unless aided with other modalities of investigations such as colonoscopy, culture of the biopsy material, etc. and even advanced methods such as polymerase chain reaction and gene X-pert of the biopsy material. Having all these investigations may not even lead to a correct diagnosis of intestinal TB as evidenced in the reported cases in the literature, advocating the need of diagnostic laparoscopy in the diagnosis of intestinal TB to eliminate extensive and unnecessary surgeries. Here, we present a case of intestinal TB in a 51-year-gentleman who got diagnosed in the course of treatment for a suspected carcinoma colon.

Benign rib tumors: a case series from tertiary care Centre of Nepal and review of literature

Rib tumors are rare. They can present with wide varieties of symptoms and differentiating benign from malignant lesions is challenging. A careful history and supporting investigations can help to reach the definite diagnosis. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice with excellent prognosis. A total of four patients were operated for the management of rib tumors over a period of 5 years at our institution. All four were benign lesions and included simple bone cyst, fibrous dysplasia with aneurysmal bone cyst, aneurysmal bone cyst and enchondroma. There were three male and one female. None of them is having recurrence till now. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice for benign rib tumors as it provides diagnostic and curative treatment.

Pulmonary sequestration presenting as a massive haemoptysis in adult: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary sequestration is a rare congenital lung malformation characterized by non-functioning mass of pulmonary tissue that lacks normal communication with bronchial tree and receives one or more aberrant systemic arterial supply. It usually presents in children with recurrent chest infections. It is uncommon in adult and remains asymptomatic or present with recurrent chest infections, rarely with more severe symptoms like a massive haemoptysis as in seen in our case.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 22-year-old male presented with a chief complain of multiple episodes of massive haemoptysis. After evaluation with chest x-ray, CT chest and angiogram, he was diagnosed to have intralobar pulmonary sequestration. He underwent successful thoracotomy and left lower lobectomy. He is asymptomatic after one year of follow up.

DISCUSSION

Pulmonary sequestration is rare in adult and can present with various symptoms like chest pain, cough, sputum production, recurrent infection and rarely haemoptysis. Intralobar sequestration of left lower lobe is the most common as seen in our case. The diagnosis can be made by Computed Tomogram chest with angiogram. Surgical intervention is the definitive curative treatment. Post-operative outcome is excellent with early patient satisfaction and promising outcome in long term follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Bronchopulmonary sequestration can rarely present in adults presenting with massive haemoptysis. CT chest is the best modality for diagnosis. Early surgical intervention is definitive treatment with good long term outcome.

A rare case of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease reported from Nepal

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, though rare, should be considered in the clinical picture of rapidly progressive dementia and absence of verbal response as evident in our case despite the absence of typical radiological picture.

Penile strangulation with a plastic bottle neck: Intervened by an atypical instrument: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Strangulation of penis, a surgical emergency, is often encountered in patients with psychiatric disorders and patients attempting to increase sexual arousal. Materials ranging from metallic to non-metallic like plastic bottles are used by the patients. The important factors to be considered for the successful treatment include the availability of instruments and the surgical skills of the doctor.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 45 year-old man with a comorbidity of severe depression presented to Emergency with a two months long history of penile strangulation with a plastic bottle neck. The gross appearance of the penis showed edema and proliferative growths. He was intervened with a cable wire cutter as standard instrument failed to do so. The patient was discharged on the same day of intervention. However, he was lost to subsequent follow up.

DISCUSSION

Penile strangulation which is common in people with mental disorders should be considered as a surgical emergency as it can present with devastating complications. No specific methods and tools have been recommended for the removal of those objects. The shame felt by patient is the root cause for late surgical consultation and are prone to develop complications. Simple instruments can be used for the intervention provided good surgical skills are demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

Common in psychiatric patients who deny medical attention due to shame, penile strangulation should be intervened quickly and simple instruments not routinely used in surgical practice can be effectively used to remove the offending objects.